Flash Bootloader BoLo

A flash bootloader is a small program that resides in the non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory) of a microcontroller or processor. It facilitates firmware updates by allowing new code to be uploaded to the device without requiring specialized programming hardware. This makes it an essential tool for embedded systems where devices need updates in the field.

Bootloaders are essential for a wide range of industries, including Automotive, IoT and Smart Devices, Consumer Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Medical Devices, Industrial Automation, Telecommunications, Energy and Utilities.

We collaborate with your company using Agile methodologies to deliver secure, efficient, and customizable BoLo Flash Bootloader solutions. Our process begins with defining hardware specifications and project requirements, ensuring compatibility with protocols like UART, CAN, and Ethernet, while integrating advanced features such as OTA updates and encryption. Through iterative sprints, we develop and test the bootloader, incorporating continuous feedback to align with your evolving needs. Our robust testing and validation process ensures reliability and security, while our post-delivery support provides seamless updates and maintenance. With BoLo Flash Bootloader, you get a tailored solution built for flexibility and excellence.

As per individual license agreement. Contact our team for more information.

Every relevant feature is customisable for easy integration within any project setting. This is facilitated by our WindFast configuration tool, provided with the Bootloader.

The feature-set can be expanded by the client, using the provided callbacks.

We also provide integration support on request, as well as development of particular and custom features or addons.

Depending on the client’s needs, we can provide together with the software package (which includes our WindFast configuration tool, as well as thorough documentation) increasing levels of support, ranging from basic training or on-call support, to full integration and development of custom features.

We provide a generic solution (Windows Based) which supports the flashing process. For Automotive products it is compliant with the UDS protocol.

If working with a proprietary tool is required, that requires certain adaptions, our team is ready to step in and help. 

If not already supported, we will port NTTBootloader to any hardware for which an MCAL (HAL) is provided. The operation is facilitated by our adaptable modular software architecture, based on the AUTOSAR standard.

• Bootloader as configurable C source code (with features as agreed for the specifics of the project)
• Configuration tool
• Flashing tool
• Documentation
• Support for integration

NTTBootloader supports CAN, CAN-FD, LIN, Ethernet, XCP interfaces and protocols. Flexray support is also planned.

Most compilers will be easily supported given a proper MCAL (HAL) is available. As our code is clean and generic, any adaption will easily be made by the client’s or the support team.

• Secure Boot integrity check
• Authenticated Boot integrity check
• UDS-based secure access
• Encryption
• SW or HW support for cryptographic algorithms
• Digital signature
• Data consistency by CRC
• Client specific mechanism are supported on demand

Based on the specific configuration for each project, the memory footprint typically ranges from tens of kilobytes to a few hundred kilobytes.

Yes, both a trojan method Bootloader Updater, and a communication capable Bootloader Updater are available. We offer as well the BootManager (which required for this).

Yes. An integration of the specific flash device driver is possible if needed.

Typical speeds are in the following ranges, depending on the used features and sequence:

• CAN FD ~5 Mbps Powertrain ECUs
• FlexRay ~10 Mbps Safety Systems
• Ethernet 100 Mbps - 1 Gbps ADAS, infotainment
• OTA (Cellular) ~1-10 Mbps Remote Updates

Optimization algorithms are available, like delta download, double buffering, compression etc.

Compared to alternatives, NTTBootloader balances performance, security, and scalability, making it a strong choice for modern architectures. One of our strong points is the high adaptability and customization capabilities. 

We focus on the value we bring to the customer, not only selling our product, that is why we offer a broad support menu, positioning ourselves as consultant instead of mere seller, assuming full accountability for the product and it’s integration. Maintenance and updates are always included with the purchase.

A new codebase (as opposed to older products which rely on grooming legacy-code, ofter tens of years old) ensures top performance and quality. ASPICE compliant development process also sets our project apart regarding quality.

Altough usually bootloaders are not developed according to a strict process because it is not a final functional software (it runs only in specific, non-safety-relevant scenarios), we have chose to adhere to all existing regulations within automotive industry (ASPICE, ISO 26262, ISO 27001 (cyber), ISO 14229 (UDS)), without increasing its cost. We use state-of-the-art tools for developing and testing at all levels.